There are times when you'll want to add information into Alexandria from outside sources (such as MARC records, book vendors, or patron information from a central database). The process of adding information into Alexandria from outside sources is called “importing”. Our software supports the importation of patron, item, and transaction command information.
The Imports interface places everything you need in an easily navigable window that allows you to quickly find, modify, and perform imports. Additionally, the Imports interface allows you to create and schedule your own custom imports. In order to become an import wizard, there are three things you need to understand: import categories, import defaults, and creating custom imports.
The Imports interface uses the familiar three-panel layout found in most Alexandria management interfaces.
The left-hand side of the window is home to the Categories pane, containing your default import types:
- Patrons
- Items
- Textbooks
- Circulation
- Groups
- Images
Selecting a default from this pane determines the settings available for the corresponding import.
The upper-right section of the window contains the Import Selection pane, which dynamically changes depending on whether you have the Quick or Saved tab selected.
When the Quick tab is selected, the Import Selection pane allows you to choose the file you would like to import from the Choose File button. Selected Quick imports do not store custom selection settings; they are used for performing instant imports or as a foundation for custom Saved imports.
When the Saved tab is selected, the Import Selection pane contains an Imports list with an associated Filter bar. This is where you select or create a custom import to view, modify, or run. If you haven't yet selected a Saved import from this pane, you will see a larger Imports list. The Selected Import pane for Saved imports only appears after an import has been selected.
The Selected Import pane—the bottom-right area of the window—contains settings for the currently selected import in various tabs.
Warning |
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Make sure your current data is archived prior to performing any data input. Once an import has been performed, there is no way to roll it back other than restoring to an archive. |